The prevalence of liver diseases is growing exponentially in India. The statistics point out the significance of the liver disease burden in India. Our country contributes to 18.3% of the two million global deaths that occurred due to liver diseases. Cirrhosis of liver along with chronic liver diseases (CLDs) collectively plays a great role in these aforementioned stats. Apart from this, liver diseases are also a major cause of premature deaths and disabilities. Also, the prevalence of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is growing with time.
There can be several causes behind liver diseases and the type of liver problem treatment given by the experts depends completely on the cause behind. The primary reason is found to be the infections caused by parasites or viruses. Such infection causes inflammation in the liver which reduces the organ’s function. Hepatitis viruses and abnormalities in the immune system are also among the major causes of liver disease. Liver diseases such as Hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease and Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency are genetical disorders. Lifestyle choices also play a great role in liver health. Chronic alcohol abuse, over-the-counter medications or unhealthy food habits also lead to various liver conditions.
Signs of Diseased Liver
Symptoms of liver disease can be difficult to spot, especially early on but knowing the symptoms can help. The early stage of liver disease is called fibrosis which means mild scarring in the liver. If diagnosed at this stage, severity can be prevented by prescribing accurate liver problem treatment.
A dull or aching pain in the top right area of the tummy
In the early stage of liver disease, you may feel slight pain in the lower right side of the ribs area. The pain can be persistent or stabbing as well.
Extreme tiredness (fatigue) and weakness
Fatigue or exhaustion is a very common symptom exhibited by various liver diseases. Studies show that liver disease-related fatigue may be caused due to fluctuations in the brain chemistry and hormone levels. Such symptoms are worsened by the presence of toxic substances in the blood which the damaged liver cannot eliminate from the body.
Unexplained weight loss and loss of appetite
Patients with severe liver damage often exhibit this symptom. As the severity increases, the condition may lead to cirrhosis and experience various other symptoms.
Yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes, also known as jaundice
This occurs when bilirubin builds up in the blood and the liver becomes unable to eliminate them from our body due to damage.
Itchy skin
The other symptom caused due to high bilirubin build-up is itchy skin. This happens due to the liver being unable to process bile which results in less fluid on the skin surface. Due to less fluid, the skin becomes flaky and forms itchy patches.
Vomiting or feeling sick (nausea)
Liver damage leads to the inability of the organ to eliminate toxins from the body and also affects our metabolism and digestion. All these together lead to persistent nausea and further lead to frequent vomiting.
Stomach pain, or a swollen or bloated stomach
Retention of albumin and protein in the blood leads to persistent stomach pain or blotted stomach. Although ascites can occur due to various medical conditions, cirrhosis of the liver is the most common one.
Swelling in the legs, ankles and feet
With the liver’s inability to process and circulate protein through the body, fluid localizes in the legs, feet and ankles. Fluid retention leads to persistent swelling and pain in the legs, feet and ankles. This condition may worsen further with a damaged kidney.
Other symptoms of severe liver damage may include:
- Frequent Fever
- Abnormal periods in women
- Lower sexual drive
- Swollen scrotum or shrunken testicles in men
- Enlarged breasts in men
When to see an expert?
If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms for a prolonged period, you must approach a specialist for liver problem treatment. Sarvodaya’s centre for Liver & Digestive Sciences houses highly skilled and experienced team of Gastroenterologists and GI & HPB surgeons managing ailments such as Acute Liver Failure, Gastrointestinal bleeding, Hepatic Encephalopathy, Acute Pancreatitis, Cholangitis and Dysphagia etc. They are equipped with latest technology to provide best liver problem treatment in Faridabad such as endoscopy, Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography with SpyGlass DS System, high-end liver diagnosis with Fibroscan etc.
